SATURDAY 9

SATURDAY 9: God Bless America

 On Saturdays I take a break from the heavy stuff and have some fun…

Unfamiliar with Connie Francis' version of this song? Hear it here.

1) Irving Berlin's lyrics celebrate our mountains, prairies, and oceans. Which of these geographical features is nearest your home?
How about an earthquake fault in my backyard? I always wanted to put up a sign that said “Diana’s Fault”

2) Berlin donated his royalties from "God Bless America" to the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America. Were you ever a Scout?
Yes, Cub Scout (My mother was Den Mother)
 
3) While this week's song has been recorded many times, we're concentrating on Connie Francis' 1959 version. It was never intended to be a hit, released as the B-side to her popular "Among My Souvenirs." But it took off when it was played at school rallies and patriotic events. Do you know all the lyrics to "God Bless America?" Could you sing along with Connie?
Let me put this way, when we were supposed to give a six grade concert I was told to mouth the words.

4) After she wrote her autobiography, Connie said she wanted Valerie Bertinelli to play her in the movie. Even though Valerie isn't known for her singing, Connie liked that they were both Italian-American and 5'5". If we made a movie of your life, who should play you?
Caroline Cossey

5) Connie had a passionate romance with Bobby Darin, and their relationship is included in the Broadway show about Bobby's life, Just In Time. While Connie expressed her support for the production, she never saw the show because hip problems made flying difficult. How about you? Are you dealing with any aches or pains today?
 Going to a cookout this after noon… It is going to be HOT! 

At the end of the NH dock

6) The Fourth of July means we're in the middle of summer. Are you careful about applying sunscreen?
I hide in the shade.

7) More beer is purchased for the 4th of July than any other holiday. What beverage will be served with your July 4th meal?
Ice tea. I make it half and half tea and lemonade.
 
8) Emergency rooms expect an increase over the July 4th holiday. The most common causes are sports injuries (like jammed wrists and wrenched knees) and the unwise use of home fireworks. Have you been to the ER or Urgent Care during 2026?

Nope.
In New Hampshire fireworks are legal and when we had a our lake cottage we would just pull up a lawn chair and watch the fireworks around the lake.

9) New York is home to Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest every year on the 4th. Will hot dogs be consumed in your household this weekend?
Nope… burgers! Cheeseburgers with pepperjack cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion with mayo. With potato salad and a tomato salad.